When preparing for TCP, which parameter should be set to the minimum level initially?

Setting the current to the minimum level initially is crucial for safety and to ensure patient comfort when preparing for Transcutaneous Pacing (TCP). Starting with the minimum current allows the clinician to establish the threshold at which the pacing captures the heart without causing excessive discomfort or potential harm to the patient. This incremental approach helps avoid causing pain or distress, particularly since TCP involves delivering electrical pulses to stimulate the heart.

Additionally, this practice aligns with standard protocols, which emphasize responsiveness to the patient's unique physiological responses. Once the minimum current is established, it can be adjusted as necessary to ensure effective pacing while maintaining patient safety. This method ensures that the pacing is effective without overshooting the required energy, which can lead to complications or adverse reactions in the patient.